7 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Zanzibar Tour Holiday

The 7 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Zanzibar Tour Holiday combines the magical wilderness of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park with the tropical paradise of Zanzibar. This carefully crafted itinerary by Deks Safaris & Tours is designed for travelers seeking the best of both worlds an encounter with the endangered mountain gorillas of Rwanda and a luxurious, soul-soothing escape to the pristine beaches of Zanzibar.

Your 7 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Zanzibar Tour journey begins in Rwanda, the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” where lush green landscapes, dramatic volcanic peaks, and rich culture welcome you. The highlight of your Rwanda experience is a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park, home to some of the last remaining mountain gorillas on earth. Spending an hour in the presence of these gentle giants is not just a safari activity; it is a deeply emotional and transformative experience that connects you with nature at its rawest and most authentic form. After trekking, Kigali City opens up its cultural charm with museums, memorials, and bustling streets that showcase Rwanda’s resilience and vibrant future.

Air Transfer from Kigali Rwanda to Zanzibar

From Rwanda, your adventure gracefully transitions to Zanzibar, the “Spice Island” of Tanzania. Known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, spice plantations, and rich Swahili-Arab culture, Zanzibar is the ultimate destination for relaxation and exploration. Here, you will unwind from your gorilla trekking adventures, indulge in water sports, discover Stone Town’s heritage, or simply bask in the serenity of the Indian Ocean coastline.

This 7 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Zanzibar Tour holiday is an exceptional fusion of thrilling wildlife encounters and tropical leisure. Every moment is curated to deliver authenticity, comfort, and unforgettable memories. With Deks Safaris & Tours, you will not only trek with gorillas but also walk barefoot on soft sands as warm breezes carry the scent of cloves and cinnamon across the island. This journey is ideal for honeymooners, adventure seekers, and travelers who desire to blend wilderness exploration with coastal indulgence.

 

Detailed 7 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Zanzibar Tour

Day 1: Arrive in Kigali, Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your Deks Safaris & Tours professional safari guide. After a short briefing about your safari journey ahead, you will embark on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park, located in Rwanda’s northern Musanze district. The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours, but every minute offers something remarkable. Rolling hills, terraced farmlands, and traditional homesteads dot the landscape, showcasing why Rwanda is often called the “Switzerland of Africa.”

Your 7 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Zanzibar Tour journey is not simply a transfer but the beginning of your adventure. Along the way, you will pass through bustling towns and lush countryside, gaining your first impressions of Rwanda’s vibrant culture. Depending on your arrival time, you may stop for a quick tour of local markets or enjoy a short cultural introduction before continuing to your lodge near Volcanoes National Park.

Arrival in Kigali City

As evening falls, you will check into your luxury lodge or eco-friendly accommodation. Nestled amidst mist-covered hills and with views of the Virunga volcanoes, the lodge provides both comfort and a sense of connection to the wilderness. Dinner is served in a warm setting, offering both local and international cuisine. You may spend the evening by the fireplace, preparing mentally and emotionally for the life-changing gorilla trekking adventure that awaits the following morning.

This day is designed to ease you into Rwanda’s rhythm, blending comfort with cultural discovery. The serene environment around Volcanoes National Park ensures you get a peaceful rest, ready for the thrilling trek ahead.

 

Day 2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park & Afternoon Relaxation

The second day is the crown jewel of your 7 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Zanzibar Tour in Volcanoes National Park. After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a detailed briefing from the park rangers. This session introduces you to gorilla families, trekking etiquette, and conservation rules that protect these magnificent creatures.

Trekking begins mid-morning and can last anywhere from two to six hours depending on the gorilla family’s location. The hike itself is a rewarding experience, taking you through dense forests, bamboo zones, and volcanic slopes. As you trek, you may encounter other wildlife such as golden monkeys, forest buffalo, or unique bird species. The anticipation builds with every step until finally, you come face to face with a mountain gorilla family.

For one magical hour, you will observe them in their natural habitat. You may watch playful juveniles swinging through vines, mothers tenderly nursing their infants, and the powerful silverback maintaining order in the family. The emotional impact of this experience is profound, leaving many visitors in awe of the gentle and intelligent nature of these endangered primates. This encounter is not just a 7 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Zanzibar Tour highlight but a memory that stays with you for a lifetime.

What to Do After Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda?

After trekking, you will return to the lodge for lunch and an afternoon of relaxation. You may choose to rest, enjoy the lodge’s amenities, or take a guided walk around the community. In the evening, a cultural experience can be arranged, including traditional Rwandan music and dance performances. Dinner will be served at the lodge as you reflect on your once-in-a-lifetime experience with the gorillas.

 

Day 3: Transfer Back to Kigali & Afternoon Kigali City Tour

After breakfast, you will depart Volcanoes National Park for Kigali City. The drive offers another chance to soak in Rwanda’s scenic landscapes. On arrival in Kigali, you will embark on a half-day city tour that unveils Rwanda’s rich culture, history, and resilience.

Your city tour may include a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which serves as a place of remembrance and education about the 1994 genocide. While deeply moving, the memorial also celebrates Rwanda’s journey of reconciliation and growth. Other stops may include the Kimironko Market, where you can experience Rwanda’s vibrant local trade, and the Inema Arts Center, which showcases modern Rwandan creativity.

Lunch will be enjoyed in one of Kigali’s top restaurants, offering local delicacies and international cuisine. The afternoon continues with visits to cultural landmarks and opportunities to shop for unique crafts, such as woven baskets and handmade jewelry. Kigali is one of Africa’s cleanest and safest capitals, and its energy is contagious.

By evening, you will check into a city hotel for dinner and overnight stay. This day provides a beautiful balance between Rwanda’s natural wonders and its cultural vibrancy, giving you a well-rounded perspective of the country before your 7 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Tour journey continues to Zanzibar.

 

Day 4: Morning Relaxation & Flight to Zanzibar

The morning is set aside for leisure in Kigali. You may relax at your hotel, enjoy a spa treatment, or do some last-minute shopping. Depending on your flight schedule, you may also arrange an optional activity such as visiting a local coffee plantation or exploring Kigali’s lush botanical gardens.

Later, you will be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your flight to Zanzibar. Upon arrival at Abeid Amani Karume International Airport in Zanzibar, you will be greeted by a representative from Deks Safaris & Tours and transferred to your beach resort.

Zanzibar immediately introduces you to a different rhythm of life. The warm tropical breeze, swaying palm trees, and turquoise waters welcome you to the Spice Island. Your resort, located along one of the island’s most pristine beaches, offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean and luxurious facilities designed for both relaxation and 7 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Zanzibar Tour adventure.

Dinner will be served at the resort, followed by a restful evening as you transition into island life. This day is a blend of relaxation and travel, ensuring that you arrive in Zanzibar refreshed and ready to immerse yourself in its cultural and natural treasures.

 

Day 5 & 6: Relaxation, Beach Activities, and Cultural Exploration in Zanzibar

These two days are dedicated to discovering Zanzibar at your own pace. Whether you crave total relaxation, thrilling water activities, or cultural immersion, Zanzibar offers something for every traveler.

You may begin with a leisurely morning on the beach, where soft white sands and clear waters invite you for swimming, sunbathing, or beach walks. Adventurous travelers may engage in snorkeling, diving, kite surfing, or traditional dhow sailing. The island’s coral reefs are teeming with marine life, offering some of the best underwater experiences in East Africa.

Cultural exploration is equally rewarding. A guided tour of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, unveils centuries of history shaped by Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences. Narrow alleys, carved wooden doors, spice markets, and historic sites such as the Old Fort and Sultan’s Palace tell fascinating stories of Zanzibar’s past.

Spice tours are another highlight, where you walk through aromatic plantations and learn about Zanzibar’s role in the global spice trade. Taste fresh cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and tropical fruits straight from the farm.

Evenings can be spent enjoying beachside dinners, traditional Swahili cuisine, or sunset cruises along the Indian Ocean. By the end of these days, you will have experienced both the serenity of Zanzibar’s beaches and the depth of its cultural heritage.

 

Day 7: Departure from Zanzibar

On the final day, enjoy a relaxed breakfast overlooking the ocean. Depending on your flight schedule, you may spend your morning swimming, sunbathing, or shopping for last-minute souvenirs. Later, you will be transferred to Zanzibar International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable Rwanda and Zanzibar holiday.

This 7 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Zanzibar Tour journey leaves you with remarkable memories from the intimate encounter with mountain gorillas to the idyllic charm of Zanzibar’s beaches. With Deks Safaris & Tours, every detail of your safari and holiday experience is designed to create lasting impressions.

 

7 Days Rwanda Gorilla Trekking & Zanzibar Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions

• Airport transfers in Kigali and Zanzibar
• Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle with English-speaking guide in Rwanda
• All accommodation as per itinerary (lodges in Rwanda, resorts in Zanzibar)
• Meals as specified (Full board in Rwanda, half board in Zanzibar unless otherwise stated)
• Gorilla trekking permit in Volcanoes National Park
• Kigali city tour entrance fees
• Flight from Kigali to Zanzibar
• All government taxes and service charges
• Guided tours and cultural experiences as listed

 

Safari Exclusions

• International flights to Rwanda and from Zanzibar
• Visa fees for Rwanda and Tanzania
• Travel and medical insurance
• Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
• Personal expenses such as tips, laundry, and beverages
• Additional meals and drinks outside the meal plan
• Any items of personal nature